Putting A Dog To Sleep

The Resource for Everything About Dogs

Putting A Dog To Sleep

by Jeff Cuckson

I was talking to a friend of mine today and I asked him how his kids (dogs) were. He lives on his own and the standing joke is - "does he want to do a swap with his dogs and my kids?"

He informed me very sadly that he had to get the older dog put to sleep. I knew the dog was quite old, but I knew from his expression and my own experience that it had been a hard decision.

He had stayed with the dog, stroking and talking to him as the vet administered the injection. I was suprised at my reaction, because it immediately brought back memories of my last dog being put to sleep. It surprised me that it still hurt after all this time.

I have found that non-dog owners think you are a bit barmy for reacting with a lot of emotion to a dog's death. They tend to forget that the dog ( or any other animal) was part of your family.

If dogs could talk what stories they could tell.

I remind you of a beautiful prayer called "A Dog's Prayer". It is by Beth Norman Harris. "Treat me kindly, my beloved master, for no heart in all the world is more grateful for kindness than the loving heart of me.

Do not break my spirit with a stick, for though I should lick yourhand between the blows, your patience and understanding will more quickly teach me the things you would have me do.

Speak to me often, for your voice is the world's sweetest music, as you must know by the fierce wagging of my tail when your footsteps falls upon my waiting ear.

When it is cold and wet, please take me inside, for I am now a domesticated animal, no longer used to bitter elements. And I ask no greater glory than the privilege of sitting at your feet beside the hearth.

Though had you no home, I would rather follow you through ice and snow than rest upon the softest pillow in the warmest home in all the land, for you are my god and I am your devoted worshiper."

(Disclaimer: Any information contained in this site relating to various medical, health and fitness conditions of Westies or other animals and their treatments is for informational purposes only and is not meant to be a substitute for the advice provided by your own veterinarian. You should not use the information contained herein for diagnosing the health of any animal. You should always consult and check with your own vet or veterinarian.)